Learning how to pull a pint is a rite of passage for university students. Many of us started out collecting glasses in the local boozer or working bar back while watching the pros mix, shake, serve and flirt. But do the pros and cons of bar work weigh up?
The social aspect of bar work is a magnet with guaranteed income plus the possibility of tips. You could be quids in from just a couple of shifts a week. That said, bar work has its drawbacks – mainly drunk people. Lots and lots of drunk people!
Here, we weigh up the real pros and cons of bar work while studying.
Pro – Hours that fit around uni
Okay, you might be a little tired if you work mid-week, but the 4am finishes are usually on the weekend leaving time for mates, sport, visiting other bars and, of course, uni.
Con – Not knowing when to call it a night
Working 6pm – 4am is alright once you’re settled in, but the hard core group will always encourage you to stay out after your shift ends. Be warned, it’s only fun for a while then you’re stuck in the trap. Uni will fall away along with your future job prospects.
Pro – The atmosphere is always lively
There’s always some spectacular people-watching to be done and there is always drama. With a decent DJ, or the match on the big screen, a bouncing atmosphere makes every shift go that bit quicker.
Con – There’s always drama
Drunk people are stupid. They do stupid things and you will see your fair share of bouncers wading in or police activity.
Con – Minimum wage
Working the bar for a full shift at the weekend is hard on your feet. Which makes minimum wage seem unfair considering the physicality of it all.
Pro – Tips
You work for a top employer if you’re encouraged to keep your own tips at the end of the shift. They all add up!
Con – It’s knackering
If you’re working 3-4 shifts a week on mega late finishes, it’s going to take it out of you. Make sure you’re factoring in plenty of time to sleep and chill – without dropping study time, obvs.
Pro – Being asked out by customers
Working the bar offers a certain attractive quality without really trying. Numbers on napkins, meeting after a shift. The bar is a stage and you’re the main attraction.
Con – Personal safety
Most bar shifts finish late at night or early in the morning leaving you to get home in the dark, possibly on your own. Make sure you’ve made firm plans to get home safely and check in with someone who’ll be awake to check on you.
Pro – Industry experience
Bar work might be a means to an end while you’re studying, but you’ll naturally pick up transferable skills while serving cocktails. Talk up your customer service, cash handling, stock taking and critical thinking ability on your CV.